Oskaloosa, IA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Oskaloosa, IA

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Oskaloosa crime rate is lower than the national average by 30.7%. Specifically, there were 50 violent crimes in Oskaloosa, equivalent to 436 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 17.8%. Furthermore, Oskaloosa recorded 135 property crimes, amounting to 1176 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 39.8%.

Oskaloosa showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.

Is Oskaloosa a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Oskaloosa a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Oskaloosa crime rate is 31% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.51 crimes per day - 0.14 violent crimes and 0.37 property crimes.

Has Crime in Oskaloosa Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Oskaloosa. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Oskaloosa has decreased by 7%. Violent crimes have increased by 78.6%, while property crimes have decreased by 21.1%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Oskaloosa

Highly populated regions typically encompass expansive urban hubs teeming with diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, giving rise to enclaves of poverty amid affluence. Communities marked by economic disparities may contend with heightened property crimes, and in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, regions characterized by low population density often exhibit lower Oskaloosa crime rates. For instance, in Oskaloosa, the population density stands at 1462.1 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

In Oskaloosa, the median home price stands at $93,000, diverging from the national average of $184,700. Elevated housing costs often induce financial strain among residents. When individuals grapple with the challenges of affording housing, they may find themselves compelled to resort to criminal activities as a means of addressing their financial hardships, including acts like theft or fraud. This predicament is particularly pronounced in areas where housing affordability poses a persistent issue, giving rise to heightened concerns regarding crime. In such instances, some individuals and families may find themselves constrained to reside in cramped or subpar housing conditions, exacerbating stress levels and potentially fostering domestic disputes and associated criminal incidents.

High rental costs can limit economic mobility, making it difficult for individuals to save money, invest in education, or access better job opportunities. This can perpetuate a cycle of poverty and increase the risk of involvement in criminal activities. In summary, high rental costs can create economic challenges, overcrowding, and neighborhood dynamics that may increase the likelihood of certain types of crime, particularly property crimes. In Oskaloosa, the average rental rates are $711 per month, compared to the national average of $949.

Oskaloosa crime map